Debt report not meant to witch-hunt anyone, says Ayade

Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, has assured the people that the implementation of the report of the Debt Review and Project Development Commission, which he set up last year, is not meant to witch-hunt anybody.

Speaking at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office, Calabar at the weekend while receiving the report, the governor maintained that the content of the report would guide the next governor on the tenure of his administration.

The report outlined Cross River’s debt profile, projects and their completion, among other items, spanning two decades.

Ayade said: “In the tradition and history of Cross River, we are brothers and we are our brothers’ keepers. This report is intended to guide us in making decisions going forward and not intended to witch hunt anybody or any group of persons.

“So whatever we find in the report, we will try to implement the recommendations to the extent that it can bring value to the state.

“It is not our intention to look backwards but to learn from the past and develop a future that is stable and strong.”

He said that by virtue of this report, the incoming governor would not have to go to the primary data in kick-starting his administration.

While explaining that the report would also help him avoid what he described as “Exit Syndrome”, the governor praised members of the committee for doing a good job.

Chairman of the 12-member Commission, Chris Agara thanked the governor for giving them the opportunity to serve the state.

He said: “The opportunity has opened our eyes to know what the issues of the state are. It has made us understand the enormous burden and responsibilities on your shoulders to manage the revenue and resources of the state that has been so depleted before your assumption of office.”